Giving back to build the next generation of roofers

By Jenny Yu.  

Volunteering, outreach and association involvement help strengthen company culture and expand the roofing talent pipeline. 

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi J. Ellsworth spoke with Mindy Dahlquist, business development manager at TRA Snow and Sun, about the company’s involvement in the Let’s Build Construction Careers Camp (LBCC) for girls. The hands-on program introduces middle and high school students to roofing and other trades, offering a pathway many young people may not realize exists. 

Mindy, who serves in multiple industry organizations such as the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA), Montana Roofing Association and National Women in Roofing (NWIR), emphasized how mentorship has shaped her own career. “It’s been really impressive to see everyone who has helped me grow and take that extra step in my career to not just keep it as a job but make it something that I want to do forever,” Mindy shared. 

As trade associations and groups like NRCA, WSRCA and SkillsUSA work to elevate roofing’s visibility, Mindy stated, “Over the last couple of decades, young women and young people overall haven't been encouraged to get into the trades. That's what we are trying to change. These children will hopefully take our place in this industry.” 

That’s why camps like LBCC are so important. “It's great to be able to empower them at this age because it does help the community,” Mindy said. “It’s giving them the confidence and the accessibility to have that success after high school or after college if they decide to go to college.” 

For TRA Snow and Sun, volunteering and giving back to the community strengthens the company culture and brand credibility. “Being able to volunteer is a blessing,” Mindy noted of her own personal experience. “It has introduced me to many other people that I have not met through trade shows. There's always something that we can gain from that other person and something that they can gain from me. There's a lot of growth with that.” 

For contractors looking to get started with community outreach but aren’t sure where to begin, Mindy suggested starting small. “Google your local children's construction camps. Join in some Habitat for Humanity projects,” she said. “Something as simple as donating five bundles of shingles without even having to utilize a large amount of your time can be very helpful.” 

Listen to the podcast to learn more about TRA Snow and Sun’s commitment to industry growth and community engagement.